Information Packet For 1/18/2011

477
V.A.I.

PERSONNEL ACTIONS FOR BOARD APPROVAL

January 18,2011

RECOMMEDNED FOR APPOINTMENT

EFF: 12/03/10

Trepovich, Sharen - Norwalk High School - Bilingual Social StudieslESL

Posting#: 2010-057

Education: Southern CT State University - BS - Geography

Fairfield University - coursework towards MA in Secondary Social Studies Experience: 0 Years

STEP 1

SALARY $50,009

RESIGNATION

EFF: 01111111

Lynam, Linda - Brien McMahon - English

RESIGNATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF RETIREMENT

EFF: 06/30/11

Camarata, Karen - Brookside - Kindergarten Green, Joyce - Tracey - Kindergarten

V.B.1.

CITY OF NORWALK BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 4, 2011

ATTENDANCE:

Jack Chiaramonte, Chair; Glenn Iannaccone, Susan Hamilton, Steve Colarossi, Sue Haynie, Jody Bishop-Pullan; Migdalia Rivas; Erin Halsey (8: 10 pm)

STAFF:

Dr. Susan Marks, Superintendent

Call to Order

Mr. Chiaramonte called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m. and led those present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Public Comments

Mr. Chiaramonte asked for any individuals who signed up to speak to state their name, address or affiliation and to limit questions or comments to three minutes in length.

Note: Comments by the various speakers are summarized and are not verbatim.

1. Karen Ham, 83B Soundview Avenue, Norwalk, stated that she was a parent of a sophomore at Brien McMahon High School, and after her daughter's first two years of high school is saddened to hear of the potential elimination of the swim program. She added that she fears that her daughter is at risk oflosing the one element of motivation that keeps her engaged in high school. She stated that she hopes the Board can find ways to continue to support the athletics programs and suggested an alternative as "pay-toplay" for the programs.

2. Nancy Wargo, Calvary Road, Norwalk, stated that she represents 150 students who are swimmers that now clock between 18-24 hours of swimming a week with practice and meets. She stated that she has done research on other surrounding towns such as Shelton and Darien that have sustained the co-op teams as ones that provide students a path to college swim opportunities, and asked the Board to keep the athletic programs in consideration when approving the budgets. She stated that as the proposed budget cut is one that directly affects the students in the co-op swim program, and added that parent fundraising efforts are difficult to sustain the costs involved with the program.

3. June Han Waldecker, introduced herself as a teacher, First Grade, at Rowayton

.. Elementary Schoor;artti stated thattfi€-r()!es ofeailYihiervenfion aides are crucialand .has been a proven formula of success of the EIT program. She added that there is beneficial data for future instruction plans and these aides are a valuable extension of teacher instruction. She added that these positions should be maintained, she urges the Board to strongly consider not cutting the EIT program.

City of Norwalk

Board of Education

January 4,2011

Page lof8

4. Ms. Shannon Tchkotoua, 2 Old Field Road, Rowayton, stated that she is co-president of the Rowayton School PTA and was here to speak on the proposed elimination of special education funding and to highlight this desperate budget situation where seven schools will not receive Title 1 funds. She applauded both the principal and assistant principal at Rowayton School, as being highly qualified and valuable administrators that are held in high regard with making significant improvements at Rowayton Elementary School.. She stated that in particular, she wanted to acknowledge the work of First Grade aides and described them as highly qualified and listed their accomplishments and value as ELL learners, co-teachers, CMT resources with literacy programs that have addressed closing the achievement gap, and have a critical role in data driven contributors to elementary school education. . She added that these positions should be maintained, she urges the Board to strongly consider not cutting the positions.

Ms. Tchkotoua added that the academic driven programs are much close to her heart, as it is equally important that students be given the opportunity to be challenged, as it is to provide special education for learning disabilities. She added that it is vital that both ends of the educational spectrum be addressed with programs that teach and reach students that not only address but reach above and beyond their ability with challenging curriculum. She added a statement to urge the administration and Board members to avoid cuts of this nature and to focus on providing appropriate and sustaining educational programs for all children.

5. Lisa Lenskold, President, PTO Council, stated that she applauds the collaboration by the Board and the Finance Department and everyone involved with the nonrecommended budget, but she strongly encourages examination of alternatives, as there is no magic surplus. She added that the future of the community is at stake if the education budget cannot accomplish the initiatives so desperately needed to address the achievement gap. She stated that it is their mission to create an environment of accountability for the many stakeholders with the Norwalk Public Schools, to establish leadership to raise standards of education, improve the opportunities for professional development for teachers along with open dialogue with administration and the Board of Education. She is hoping to have public attend workshops aimed at a plan to demystify the confounding and lengthy process that results in the operating budget for Norwalk Public Schools, and, the community should have the chance to raise questions and concerns with officials.

6. Suzanne Brown Koroshetz, 21 Ravenwood Road, Norwalk, and Principal of Brien McMahon High School, introduced herself as a parent with a vested interest in the community having children that were 2003 and 2006 graduates ofBMHS. She thanked Dr. Marks and the budget committee for all their endless hours and work with the nonrecommended budget, and hopes the areas of School to Career and removal of two high school housemaster positions be reinstated. She gave an overview of her background as a Math Teacher and stated that the studentswiHsu·ffcr with their education standards ire .. such positions are not maintained. She urged the administration and Board members to avoid cuts of this nature and to focus on providing appropriate and sustaining educational programs for all children so that students of 20 11 can have the same standards as 2003 and 2006.

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 4,2011 Page 2 of8

7. Lauren Rosato, Director ofthe Norwalk Education Foundation, NEF, and active parent in the Norwalk Public Schools, stated that she wanted to advocate the position of IT staff Developer to address the IT resources needed to acquire donations from corporations and the private sector. She referred to page 5, paragraph 3 of the budget presentation and stated while the position removal would save $85,000 it jeopardizes that amount tri-fold and dismantles ten years of training and mandatory CEU training. She elaborated on the far reaching impact ofthe budget cuts, and asked the Board to carefully examine the budgeted items and reinstate the areas in line with meeting the instructional goals of the district. She provided a written copy of her statements to the Board.

8. Dr. Lynne Moore, Principal of West Rocks Middle School, stated that she is here, once again, to express the same sentiment as prior years, and not this year with a devastating 2% increase on top of a zero increase. She reviewed the past history on the union coalition that had negotiated for implementation the Health Savings Plan in January 2010 which eight months earlier than planned which resulted in significant additional savings, and added that they have stepped up and have offered to meet the reconciliation with concessions. She stated that she believes that hard work with reconciling the budget and the difficult cuts that they have been asked to make, again with no new initiatives is devastating to the district. She stated that the Board of Estimate and Taxation have once again blamed public employees of the district with scare tactics of property tax increases and property values that will suffer. She stated that it is our mission to create an environment of accountability for the many stakeholders with the Norwalk Public Schools, to establish leadership to raise standards of education, improve the opportunities for professional development for teachers along with open dialogue with administration and the Board of Education. She said that behalf of the district she wanted to thank Dr. Cook for the job he has done during his assignment as Interim CFO, and said they truly appreciate his professional manner in which he embraced his position. She added that moving forward to the 2010-11 Budget, and that she hopes to have the workshop for parents. She stated that parents are ready to support the budget necessary to provide the level of education that Norwalk needs to meet state standards. She stated that the there needs to be community forums that clearly state the need for involvement by stakeholders and she is disappointed that the BOE has not "listened" and would like to know how they can weigh in on the decisions at hand. She added that community stakeholders playa vital role with educational direction and the mission statement has to evolve around the input provided by the community, and to let the Common Council members know that their support is vital.

9. Lynn Massey, 36 Meeker Court, introduced herself as an active parent in the Norwalk Public Schools having been PTO Council President, and current co-president of the BMHS Parents Club. She echoed the comments made by other public participants and stated that she supports Dr Marks and the City is fortunate to have a mayor that is an active supporter of the schools. She stated that her objective can be best summarized by saying, that .we.love.our schools and oar-chasge.is to provide the best possible education for our children. She stated that she does take exception to the statements made in the Hour newspaper as it relates to public officials being to blame for the state of the budget, and she asked that the Board to work with the NFT to negotiate a budget that accomplishes the goals of the Norwalk Public Schools for the education of our children.

City of Norwalk

Board of Education

January 4,2011

Page 3 of8

10. Anton Schuchak, 350 Main Avenue, Norwalk, thanked the Board for the opportunity to speak on behalf of the problems with the school system last month and for being able to have his voice heard and his rights respected.

11. Kirstin Emhrogb, stated that she was a graduate of Norwalk High School and is now a college student majoring in Biology and wanted to share the importance ofthe school to Career program that helped both she and her brother. She spoke about the opportunity she had to job shadow with the Nursing program at Norwalk Hospital and how this valuable experience helped her have the added extra push to secure internships. She stated that eliminating the STC positions present an added burden on the "already spread too thin" roles of the guidance counselors.

12. Tony Santa Maria, 36 West Avenue, Norwalk, stated that the system is failing our kids and especially those identified as special education, and he is tired of the abuse he has received from the administrators at Brien McMahon. He stated that they do not communicate with him in a positive manner, and only call him when one of his children is being suspended. He stated that he has had two years of meetings and is always requesting their involvement and help for this children, and they fail to recognize him, and one again, he is here without a voice and no rights, and can no longer accept the lack of response to his request for information and the unkind treatment he receives from Brien McMahon High School. He stated that Mrs. Michailidis was mean and unprofessional to him and had him escorted out of the building when he reacted to missing information he had repeatedly asked for this from the school. He added that the time is now to stop this bias treatment of him and his children. He stated that his son has gone through high school without being able to read, and his children are bullied and picked on by other students. He provided copies of a letter received from the ROTC teacher at BMHS, and re-stated that he is here without a voice and no rights, and can no longer accept the lack of response to his request for information and the unkind treatment he receives from Brien McMahon High School. He stated that staff members are continually difficult, mean and unprofessional to him. He feels it is within his rights to get copies of the PPT's and he just cannot understand how this can continue to go on and it has to stop, and that the Norwalk Public Schools is unfair and biased in their approach to parents, and added that the Board is racist and the fact that there are no blacks on the board is an example of bias and discrimination.

Mr. Chiaramonte asked ifthere was anyone else wishing to make a public comment, and hearing none, he closed the Public Comments portion of the meeting at 8:25 p.m.

Superintendent's Report

Dr. Marks announced that January 17, 2011 marks the zs" anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday observance, and referred to the flyer the Norwalk Public Schools' annual citywide celebration. She asked members to please share this with students, family and friends, and she gave a historical review of the program significance.

City of Norwalk

Board of Education

January 4,2011

Page 4 of8

She added that this year's theme is: "Sustaining The Legacy Of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." and added that she urges and hopes that parents and members of the community will consider participating or attending this event.

Presentation of2011-12 Operating Budget

Dr. Marks stated that in view of her hopes and dreams for Norwalk, as she accepted the honor of being selected to be the Superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools, was to take a good district and make it great. She stated that the 2011-12 Operating Budget School has been prepared by a committee of dedicated members and she acknowledged those present and asked them to stand to be recognized for their efforts. She provided an overview that this budget represents a 3.32% operating budget increase that includes no new positions or initiatives, along with the recovery of 2.1 million dollars of the Federal Stimulus funds, 1.4 million dollars in state funds, employee negotiated agreements, health benefit costs and special education mandated costs. She added, that in order to deliver a fiscally responsible budget, the 2011-2012 operating budget includes significant reductions at all levels of the school system including the schools that will critically impact our instructional and extracurricular programs.

Dr. Marks stated that her recommendation begins the budget process amidst the many uncertainties surrounding the financial situation in Norwalk and the state of Connecticut, and realizes that all of the very difficult sacrifices that have been made. She added that this is a community that values education and understands that a strong school system is essential to our future, and wants to acknowledge everyone involved for their work on behalf of our students, and she thanked all those involved for a truly collaborative partnership with the NFT, NASA, NFEP and the staff who have reviewed, analyzed every element, line by line. She added that she also wants to acknowledge the many foundations, non-profit organizations and private foundations that invest in our school system, and looks forward to advocating not just for this budget, but for our students.

Dr Marks stated that these reductions are painful and if there are areas of the budget that are put back, something will have to come out in its place, like rearranging furniture. She stated that she thanks the parents who have come out tonight, and she agrees with everything that has been said, that these reductions are not good for the students.

Dr. Marks then reviewed the power-point presentation of the 2011-12 Operating Budget, and asked for questions to be held to be addressed following the presentation ..

She concluded that the upcoming work session on January 6 will be devoted to the budget review process.

ACTIONS

. AoprQval of Budget Transfers.,

Mr. Colarossi asked about the transfer for overtime, and Dr. Marks asked Mrs. Vaccarella to explain the rationale for the transfer. Ms. Vaccarella explained that this transfer was needed to cover overtime as requested by Ms. Reilly, Principal, who was in attendance and stated that these transfer funds were need to cover support services.

City of Norwalk

Board of Education

January 4,2011

Page 5 of8

**

MR. IANNACCONE MOTIONED TO APPROVE BUDGET TRANSFERS AS LISTED ON SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS, AS FOLLOWS:

BE IT RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE THE 2010-11 BUDGET TRANSFERS FOR ROWAYTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, FROM PRINCIPAL'S ACCOUNT TO OVERTIME, AS PRESENTED.

MS. HAYNIE SECONDED.

THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

** **

Discussion of2011-12 Operating Budget

Ms. Rivas asked if the board member questions would be answered, and Dr. Marks replied that the staff is working very hard to compile all the questions with answers. Ms. Rivas stated that as part of the due diligence of the Board, it is absolutely critical to have the questions addressed so that the public can see how the Board is responding to the budget, especially in view of the cuts. Dr. Marks restated that she is hopeful that the questions and answers will be posted on the website by tomorrow.

Ms. Haynie stated that she felt it was good to have the questions stated in a format that would be clear to follow as a compilation of all the questions with answers.

Mr. Colarossi asked if, as a framework, to have the itemization of the cash reserves or excesses, and an overview of the anticipated state revenues included, along with a breakdown ofECS job funds, priority schools, grants reallocations, Title 2A and ELL.

Ms. Haynie added that clarification of debits and credits of the grants would be useful to understand and explain to the public what is coming and what replaces those funds.

Ms. Rivas asked about Title 6 funds and a staff member from the audience replied that a summary of all ECS job funds would be included. Ms. Rivas clarified her request to include, priority schools, grants reallocations, Title 2A and ELL with a description of how acquired and the date, and eligibility of uses.

Ms. Rivas asked to have all the questions outlined to be addressed and to include translation arrangements similar to the United Nations with Spanish and French/Creole translators present. She added that it was important that all members of the public be able to understand the budget process, and she stressed the importance of having these bi-lingual translations available.

Ms. Bishop-Pullan asked how much attention has been given to the professional and staff .. ··oequityand·feedbaekfr1Jrnt11esdH:m1s, espeeiallythose hithar desrtrythe-reduetions=Dr:

Marks replied that the committee has looked at the size of the schools relative to staffing and programs impacted.


Ms. Rivas asked about the city audit process and if such an audit could be done with the program grant funds as outlined in this budget recommendation. Ms. Bishop-Pullan added that she is concerned with this process of presenting a budget that is "non" recommended and wants to review with the Common Council to have some reassurance of workable solutions.

Ms. Rivas asked about the out of district placement students that are recommended to be returned to the district, and Dr. Marks asked Mr. Daddona to come forward to address the issue.

Mr. Daddona stated that it is a very complex issue with state mandates where students who cannot be serviced in Norwalk are placed out of district could cost the district $50,000 per student. Ms. Haynie asked for an analysis of the cost effectiveness of the quality of out-placing students versus the value of in-house education. A discussion ensued relative to the out of district policies, and Ms. Rivas stated that there are many students that cannot be adequately educated to meet their complex special needs. Dr. Marks added that there is a level of professional development required for Behavioral Specialists required to support the inclusion and the required qualifications to meet the needs of those students.

Mayor Moccia stated that he is very sensitive to the budget issues, and wanted to assure the Board and members of the public that Norwalk is not alone in this financial struggle that other cities are faced with. He provided comparisons with cities such as Greenwich, and Stamford with the percentage of budget increases and stated that Norwalk is not unique with the matters faced. He added that it was important to clarify a misquoted statement from the BET meeting, that he does not blame City employees for this budget crisis. He added that there needs to be a collaborative effort for all parties to come to the table to share the sacrifice and work on the recommended budget.

Mr. Chiaramonte reminded everyone that this is the third budget crisis year, and it is getting worse with more and more cuts and less stimulus and state funds. He added that he is also a parent and we all want what is best for our children and we have to find ways to work together.

Commi tteelRepresentati ve Reports

Finance Committee - Mr. Colarossi said that Finance Committee meeting on Thursday, January 6 would be scheduled as a special meeting and budget work session, as announced by Dr. Marks. He added that at Thursday's budget workshop, all board Members are encouraged to attend to address the questions and answers.

Board Member Announcements

Ms. Hamilton stated that she had the pleasure of attending the Senator's Community Foundation Candy Necklace award ceremony and commended them for the level of dedication and commitment that this group of young people has to fight their cause of preventing child abuse and human trafficking.

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 4,2011 Page7of8

Ms. Halsey announced that the Norwalk High Marching Bears received $5,000 award from MBI and thanked all those who voted in support of the NHS Band, and congratulated them on their achievement and award of distinction for Norwalk.

VII. Executive Session

** MR. IANNACCONE MOTIONED TO ENTER EXECUIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS RECORDS, REPORTS, AND STATEMENTS OF STRATEGY OR NEGOTIATIONS WITH RESPECT TO COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND POSSIBLE ACTION - UNITED FEDERATION OF TECHNICIANS, LOCAL 72 SUPPORT, AFSA, CFSA, AFL-CIO.

** MS. RIVAS SECONDED

** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

The meeting went into Executive Session at 9:30 p.m. and reconvened back into public session at 10:30 p.m.

Mr. Iannaccone stated that there were no votes taken during Executive Session.

** MR. IANNACCONE MOTIONED TO ACCEPT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, UPON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE THE NEGOTIATIONS IN SUPPORT OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING WITH - UNITED FEDERATION OF TECHNICIANS, LOCAL 72 SUPPORT, AFSA, CFSA, AFL-CIO.

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, THAT THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AUTHORIZE THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, SUSAN F. MARKS, TO SIGN ANY AND ALL DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO FINALIZE NEGOTIATIONS.

** MS. HAYNE SECONDED THE MOTION.

** THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

ADJOURNMENT

**

MS. HAYNIE MOVED TO ADJOURN. MR. COLAROSSI SECONDED.

**

The meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn Knox

Telesco Secretarial Services

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 4,2011 Page 80f8

V.B.2.

CITY OF NORWALK

BOARD OF EDUCATION FINANCE COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING JANUARY 6, 2011

ATTENDANCE:

Steve Colarossi, Chair; Jack Chiaramonte, Glenn Iannaccone, Susan Hamilton, Sue Haynie, Jody Bishop-Pullan, Migdalia Rivas;

STAFF:

Dr. Susan Marks, Superintendent;

Donna Vaccarella, Interim Budget Coordinator,

Rita Galbo, Finance Department Administrative Support

Call to Order

Mr. Colarossi called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m, and led those present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mr. Colarossi stated that the purpose of this special meeting was to provide public information on the budget recommendation, and he gave an overview of the budget process, whereby the budget committee, comprised of representatives from unions, parents and central office staff, has developed the operating budget for the 2011-12 school year. He added that one of the primary accomplishments of the committee has been to review the operating budget line by line, and has not been able to preserve school based staff and programs, and has in fact will have a devastating impact on the schools.

He noted that this operating budget request actually represents a budget that has fewer resources than the 2010-11 school year even though this budget, at $155,338,729 is a 3.32% more than last year. This budget includes the employee negotiated agreements, increases in employee benefits, staff class size guidelines and mandated special education services. There are no new initiatives or positions in this operating budget request. This operating budget includes reductions at every level of the school system including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as the central office administrators, teachers and support personnel, as well as programs.

Mr. Colarossi asked Dr. Marks to start with a review of the Central Office portion of the budget and asked the following questions: (note that responses are listed in bold)

Q 1. Our total need is $155M: does this reflect what we need from the City or would we subtract ECS, the other revenue sources?

Qr.AnsWef:The~$155MIswbatweneedl·romtheCitY, tlleExcess Cost/Stafe Agency Placement dollars have been included, all revenues have been considered that offset the budget, and $100,000 carryover has also been included.

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 6,2011 Page 1 of 13

Q2. Are the amounts available from the carryover, and federal job funds included in the $155M or are these funds available for the BOE to fund some of the areas subject to potential cuts?

Q2. Answer: Staff has been allocated to the Education Job Funds Grant, and at this time, there are no additional funds available to offset any potential cuts. Also, a breakdown of the grants is included as supplemental information in the budget packet along with the budget questions and answers posted on the website.

Mr. Colarossi stated that due to technical difficulties, he was asking for a recess to address the sound system and microphones.

The meeting was recessed at 7:20 p.m. and a call to resume order was done at 7:30 p.m. to re-enter back into public session.

Q3: Mr. Colarossi asked what the 7% increase to Central Office represented.

Q3 Answer: Ms. Vaccarella stated that there were non-salary items such as services to schools, medical benefits, social security that represented the increase of 7%, and a 0% increase for 2011/12 and the budget can be reduced to reflect the adjustment less the dollars needed for the COO contracted salary for 10/11 and who will also take no increase for 2011/12.

Q5. Within administrative operations, the COO salary is now an item that is recoverable to return to the budget as the Interim per diem should be listed as budget savings of approximately $18,000.

Q5 Answer: Contract was signed after the budget document was printed and the adjusted salary will be reflected in the Board approved budget.

Mr. Colarossi stated that in the interests of the many individuals from the public, especially parents and children of elementary ages, he would address the budget in segments and asked for a review starting with the Elementary School section first, and asked the following questions:

Q 1. In the list of cuts for elementary teacher reductions, listed twice as teacher reductions and reduction in reserves, has this cut been double counted?

Q2. Answer: Ms. Galbo referred to Page 9 (Elementary Schools) and stated that the elementary school level, based on enrollment needs, there is a reduction of 4 reserve teachers that is included each budget season for unanticipated enrollment. It has not been double counted, and Page 8 and 9 are a summary staff changes.

Q3: .. Is.Jher.e.a breakd.ownoftheECSand.E1Efunding,as itreJates to the Eleraentary School. First Grade Aides and Intervention Aides.

Q3. Answer: Dr. Marks stated that the recommended budget removes Kindergarten Aides and puts that amount into the Priority Schools account.

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 6, 2011 Page 2 of 13

Q4: Was there any consideration of size of schools in cutting in half the Instructional Aides positions.

Q5. Answer: Dr. Marks stated that the specific schools listed in the budget are a place card for now and further evaluation of schools reduction of intervention aides will move the support provided into areas of classroom management and roles of the Principals.

Public Comments

Mr. Colarossi asked for any individuals who signed up to speak about the Elementary School budget to state their name, address or affiliation and to limit questions or comments to three minutes in length.


Elementary School Comments:

1. Amy Newson, SA April Lane - spoke in behalf of Silvermine PTO and urged the Board to examine the value and the roles of early intervention aides that are crucial and have been a proven formula of success of the EIT program. She added that there is beneficial data for future instruction plans and these aides are a valuable extension of teacher instruction. She added that these positions should be maintained, she urges the Board to strongly consider not cutting the ElT program.

2. Alice Faccett, Norwalk, - spoke on behalf of the maintaining Literacy Aides and Numeracy Coaches at Rowayton Elementary School and was here to highlight this desperate budget situation where schools will not receive Title 1 funds. She applauded both the principal and assistant principal at Rowayton School, as being highly qualified and valuable administrators that are held in high regard with making significant improvements at Rowayton Elementary School. She stated that in particular, she wanted to acknowledge the work of First Grade aides and described them as highly qualified and listed their accomplishments and value as ELL learners, co-teachers, CMT resources with literacy programs that have addressed closing the achievement gap, and have a critical role in data driven contributors to elementary school education. . She added that these positions should be maintained, she urges the Board to strongly consider not cutting the positions. She added a statement to urge the administration and Board members to avoid cuts of this nature and to focus on providing appropriate and sustaining educational programs for all children.

3. Drew Todd, spoke on behalf of the maintaining the Assistant Principal, Intervention and Literacy i\i~es and NUll1~racyCoaches at W()lfpitE!~~~m<lfX~gl1()ol.J:I~s.t<lt.~d ~ .....

... '~tIi:afthe sdioollias many great things going on and urged the B·oarClto value-those·· -

strengths and not change the formula of their success.


4. Maria Robinson, Co-President of the Wolfpit PTO stated that she is appalled at the devastating cuts in this recommended budget and to have to fight for the future of the City to keep these vital programs is a sad state of affairs. She spoke on behalf of the maintaining the Assistant Principal, Intervention and Literacy Aides and Numeracy Coaches at Wolfpit Elementary School.

5. Chris Miller, spoke on behalf of the maintaining the Assistant Principal, Intervention and Literacy Aides and Numeracy Coaches at Naramake School. He gave data on dollars spent per child compared to Columbus and asked the Board to be fair and equitable with their budget cuts per school.

6. Lisa Lenskold, President, PTO Council, stated that she applauds the collaboration by the Board and the Finance Department and everyone involved with the nonrecommended budget, but she strongly encourages examination of alternatives, as there is no magic surplus. She added that the future of the community is at stake if the education budget cannot accomplish the initiatives so desperately needed to address the achievement gap, address the mission of to achieve the level of quality education for all children, improve the opportunities for professional development for teachers along with open dialogue with administration and the Board of Education.

Mr. Colarossi then reviewed the potential cuts at the Middle School level, which include two Assistant Principals, Guidance Counselors and moving out of portable classrooms.

Middle School Comments:

1. Lis a Thomson introduced herself as a former parent of Rowayton Elementary School, current president of the Roton Middle School PTA, and executive member of R.Ed. Apples, an education reform advocacy group in Norwalk. She read her written comments and provided a copy to the Superintendent, with excerpts as follows:

Weare still feeling the effects of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Cities across the nation are seeing their tax revenues decline, and as we have been recently informed by the BET and CC, Norwalk is NO exception. The BET and Common Council will be setting the cap on city spending in the next few weeks. We have a working BOE budget. There is a GAP. Maybe the gap is $2M with a 2% tax increase maybe it is $4M ifthere is a 0% increase. We still don't know. But what we DO know is that there are 85,000 people in this town and 4/5 of them are NOT in the school system. . .. We were told last year during the last budget exercise and again last night by the BET that other bargaining units in the city have taken pay freezes. The BOE needs to continue to revisit this position with the various bargaining units and individual contract holders in order to save more jobs. The average teacher, administrator and central office staff member works hard, but at the same time earns 2 and 3 times more in wages and benefits. thane the average Norwalkresident, .,< We pay high taxes and we pay-our-city employees. As parents, we have already proposed a "pay to play" concept for many sports, music, arts and other extra-curricular activities to help ease the budget and support the core academic curriculum.


As part of the R.Ed. APPLES community advocacy group, I have passed out a document that captures tax, compensation, instructional hours and high school student SAT and AP test data for some of our neighboring towns and ERGs. With all due respect to the union heads, Norwalk educators and administrators are paid very well. I would be more inclined to support a tax increase if our school test results and AP test takers were at least on par with Stamford's. Sadly they are not. I ask the leadership and board, what is Stamford doing that we are not? I welcome the new leadership of Dr. Marks, and believe that the Norwalk Public School system has turned the comer on educational standards. I have seen in improvements in the management of schools and student achievement through my site visits with principals and teacher at the various schools. But unfortunately, as the data reveals, we are not there yet and we are caught up in unprecedented and very difficult financial times. Therefore I am strongly endorsing a PAY FREEZE POLICY for ALL City BOE employees until such time as we are out of the financial mess that we all find ourselves in and hopefully through education reform compensate our effective teachers even more. Thank you.

8. Mark Bonasera, Assistant Principal of West Rocks Middle School stated that he was here tonight to add his voice that the proposed cuts are wrong for Norwalk's students and wrong for this city, will take us all in the wrong direction, hurt our youth, hurt Norwalk's reputation, and our economy as a whole. The proposed cutting of classroom aides on the first grade level, when many students are just beginning to read, will mean a lack of small-group and one-on-one assistance that so many need. It will impede many students' acquisition of reading skills, which is the foundation for all future learning .... As part of the 3.32% increase, one assistant principal position is slated to be cut. The loss of an assistant principal at West Rocks would be devastating to the school community. Speaking now to the public, I would like to share what assistant principals do. We do a lot more than process disciplinary referrals. Working closely with the principal, we collect and analyze student achievement data, organize academic intervention, communicate with parents, supervise teachers and pupil personnel staff and help them develop their skills, oversee services for special education students and English Language Learners, we facilitate professional development, we organize activities and fundraisers, enforce school rules, write hearing documents, we oversee the upkeep of facilities, work with counselors, we mentor, and we tutor. We do everything we can to ensure that the school environment is safe, nurturing, enriching, and productive. Joe DeVellis and I work 10-12 hours a day, take work home, and still have barely enough time to do all that needs to be done. Having three administrators at West Rocks means that each of us can support a grade of over 200 students, in perhaps the most crucial and challenging phase of their academic, psychological, and social development. And at Ponus Ridge and West Rocks, we serve a most beautifully and challengingly diverse population, diverse in terms of ethnicity, culture, race, family income, and learning needs. Taking away an administrator at West Rocks, and at Ponus Ridge, will destroy that vital level of support. Together, we as a community must do whatever we can to support our schools as we wait

. fQLOJlrJocal,_statf#,,4pd£ed~ral. economies.to. reb_ound.Doingsowil! prote.ctl1,DOOof .- cc our young people and our city as a whole.

9. Rebecca Sable spoke on behalf of the West Rocks. She stated that the loss of an assistant principal at West Rocks would be devastating to the school community.

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Board of Education

January 6,2011

Page 5 of 13

She read from her written statement that reiterated many of the comments made by Mr. Bonasera with excerpts highlighted the importance of maintaining the budget to establish leadership to raise standards of education, improve the opportunities for professional development for teachers along with open dialogue with administration and the Board of Education. Having three administrators at West Rocks means that each can support a grade of over 200 students, in perhaps the most crucial and challenging phase of their academic, psychological, and social development. She stated that parents are ready to support the budget necessary to provide the level of education that Norwalk needs to meet state standards. She added that community stakeholders playa vital role with educational direction and the mission statement has to evolve around the input provided by the community, and to let the Common Council members know that their support is vital.

10. Monica Arterio introduced herself and the Executive Board of West Rocks PTO, and also reiterated the comments made by Mr. Bonasera and spoke in support of maintaining the Assistant Principal position and maintaining the classroom space that is currently being used.

11. Dr. Lynne Moore, Principal of West Rocks Middle School, stated that she learned the day before the holiday recess that they would be losing an assistant principal without an opportunity to provide an evaluation or input or discussion. At West Rocks, we serve a most challengingly diverse population in culture, race, economic and learning needs. Taking away an administrator will destroy that vital level of support that has been necessary to attain the credibility of the school.

She added that, so, she is here, once again, to express the same sentiment as prior years, and this year with a devastating 2% increase on top of a zero increase. She reviewed the past history on the union coalition that had negotiated for implementation the Health Savings Plan in January 2010 which eight months earlier than planned which resulted in significant additional savings, and added that they have stepped up and have offered to meet the reconciliation with concessions. She stated that she believes that hard work with reconciling the budget and the difficult cuts that they have been asked to make, again with no new initiatives is devastating to the district. She stated that the Board of Estimate and Taxation have once again blamed public employees of the district with scare tactics of property tax increases and property values that will suffer.

Mr. Colarossi asked about the decision to move the portables, and Dr. Marks asked Mark Gorian to respond with supporting information. He stated that the decision was based on rental of approximately $3,500 per month, which would save that expense if the teaching space could be reallocated within the building. Dr. Moore replied that the portables are used by World Language teachers and it is impossible to teach a Foreign Language out of a cart.

12. Claire Whitman, spoke on behalf of West Rocks and stated.that the Board should ask for a budget that meets all the needs that every student in Norwalk deserves and not short change the BOE budget but take a small portion of other city services. She added that we should not presume that these are the only cuts that are to be accepted.


13. Ms. Leticia Garcia spoke on behalf of West Rocks and stated that the loss of an assistant principal at West Rocks would be devastating to the school community.

Mr. Colarossi stated that the high school budget would be next and asked the following questions:

Q 1. The list of cuts indicates a reduction of one school-to-career staff member at each high school, was any consideration made to cut only Yi of a school-to-career counselor is being at each school?

Ql Answer- There are two positions in School to Career. One is a teaching position the other is a guidance position. This is indicated as to a O.S teaching position at each location and O.S guidance position at each location.

Q2. With respect to the high school athletic teams, there is particular concern about any diminution of our swim team and ice hockey teams. which attracts good students and has had success securing scholarship aid. What are the costs per team.

Q2 Answer - Mr. Daddona replied that the Co-op teams - boys and girls swim team and ice hockey are being proposed to be eliminated: Boys swim is $17,SOO for 18 students and Girls swim $17,SOO for 30 students. Hockey is $38,000 for 20 students.

Q3. Mr. Colarossi asked about the costs of the swim program and found it confusing that ifNHS owns the pool, why the maintenance costs are assigned to the swim program.

Q3 Answer: Ms. Galbo explained that the Parks & Recreation Dept. assigns a charge for pool usage for any group that uses the pool. Mr. Daddona added that there are costs provided by the athletic directors relative to fees, insurance and transportation.

Q4. With respect to the high school athletic teams, has any evaluation been undertaken to consider the impact of a limited "pay-to-play" system?

Q4 Answer: - No evaluation has taken place on pay-to-play, however, with recent information we will evaluate this option.

QS.With the reduction of one Housemaster at each high school, what's the plan?

QS Answer: The remaining housemasters will pick up the additional work. The housemaster job description is in the addendum.

Q6. Is the School to Career a program one that is a fairly inexpensive program?

Q6 Answer- If it is grant funded, the cost of the program will eliminate another grant funded program that will have to return to the local budget.


High School Comments:

1. Lynn Massey, 36 Meeker Court, introduced herself as an active parent in the Norwalk Public Schools having been PTO Council President, and current copresident of the BMHS Parents Club. She echoed the comments made by other public participants and stated that she supports Dr Marks and the City is fortunate to have a superintendent that is has embraced her role by engaging the public and stakeholders to be active participants of the schools. She stated that her objective can be best summarized by saying, that we love our schools and our charge is to provide the best possible education for our children. She read her written comments stating that parents and city officials, including the mayor, have urged school unions to narrow the budget gap and protect programs and personnel by agreeing to freeze their wages and to take a zero increase for the next year-a minor concession in the interest of saving jobs.

2. Karen Pace, 8 Crest Road introduced herself as an active parent in the Norwalk Public Schools having been PTO Council President, and current co-president of the BMHS Parents Club for the past two years along with Lynn Massey. She echoed the comments made by Mrs. Massey by asking the teachers to consider a freeze of their wages and to take a zero increase for the next year in the interest of saving programs and positions.

3. Daniella Tejada & John Castelluzzo, Guidance Counselors at Brien McMahon High School, read statements, with highlighted excerpts as follows: While we appreciate the budget constraints that Norwalk Public Schools is currently experiencing, we feel the dire need to highlight the role that the School to Career Program plays in the lives of our students that helps develop their dreams and construct the paths to attaining them, enhance students' career decision making by broadening their knowledge of the work world, increasing their awareness of their talents and potential, and educating them about the importance of matching their personal attributes to careers. They guide students in assessing their skills and interests and gently help channel their passions in directions that will lead students to success. Often, they can connect students with adults working in the field who advise them how best to pursue their dreams, providing the context and direct connection high school students crave in order to approach subject matter with a sense of purpose, with field trips where students can experience hands on understanding of classroom instruction, running sessions on the important topics of resume building, interviewing skills, and money management, offering career exposure and assess the career interests of our students and then develop and implement these career learning experiences to address our students' needs. The benefits of the School to Career Program extend to all high school students in our district, so the loss of this program would be truly devastating. It would waste community connections that have taken years to establish; more importantly, it would deprive our students of knowledge, personal growth, and increased self awareness, motivation, and vision. This would contradict the philosophy ofthe Board of Education to "provide students the opportunityto.learn additional skills ... to prepare them for the future; to enable them to make responsible decisions ... and qualify for higher education or employment."

Respectfully, Karen Amaker, John Castelluzzo, Elaine Gratrix, Dawn Leeds, Sarah Novia, Marcy Sansolo, Chad Southerland, Daniela Tejada and Carol Wiltshire.


4. Mallory Ham, 83B Soundview Avenue, Norwalk, stated that she was a sophomore and after her first two years of high school is saddened to hear of the potential elimination of the swim program. She added that it keeps her engaged in high school, and has become a huge part of who she is, and went on to describe the importance of team competition and the athletic edge this program represents. She stated that she hopes the Board can find ways to continue to support the athletics programs and suggested an alternative as "pay-to-play" for the programs.

5. Jay Devine, 4 Cary Lane, Norwalk, stated that he is the parent of three children who participated in the swim team program at NHS that went on to swim at the college level. He stated that he has done research on costs of the swim programs that are relatively low to include a low coach fees, officials for meets and a few buses to local meets. He asked the Financial team to sharpen their pencils on the allocation of costs from the school to the city, which is from one pocket to another. He emphasized the co-op swim teams as ones that provide students a path to college swim opportunities, and asked the Board to keep the athletic programs in consideration when approving the budgets to sustain the program.

The following students also spoke on behalf of the Co-op Swim Program:

Meredith Pramer, Laura Portillo, Page DeLago, Katie Wargo, Chris Crothers, Kimberly Devine, Kevin Devine

Chuck Goulart, President Norwalk High school Music Program, stated that his group is here tonight for the total music program, not just marching band, which is only a small part of a vast music program that also includes 2 jazz orchestras, 2 concert bands, 2 color guard squads, winter percussion, huge chorus, string orchestra, concerts, candlelight, and the musicals. He added that the transportation budget of $20,000 which is 100% of our budget must be maintained and reinstated in the budget. He provided copies of 3 university studies, on the direct correlation of Music and academics, and stated that music is far from extracurricular, university studies show students in a music program do drastically better academically, on sat and act testing, with improved self-esteem and confidence, as well as social skills and a slew of other life lessons. He summarized with saying that instead of telling the finance committee this is our recommended budget, tell them this what the budget has to be and it is an absolute non-negotiable budget. In order to run a school system with all of its own pressure from above to perform, and turnout excellence in education, excellent students and citizens--our end goal. Speaking from a laypersons view, if each and every staff person went to the union reps and told them to implement a pay freeze for this year that would narrow our gap by 1.2 % making it just a little amount and just a little closer, as well as eliminate the long dragged out union fighting, if they are all unified. We all know EVERYONE has to give a little in these difficult times. Please find other ways for the city to cut items and shift the saving into education budget.

Mary Hanna, 204 New Canaan Avenue, said she was Vice President ofMBI spoke on behalf of the greater music program, and she echoed many of the comments made before about the band, on the direct correlation of Music and academics, and stated that music is far from extracurricular, students in a music program do drastically better academically.

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Board of Education

January 6,2011

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Cathy Power Mulford, 4 Walkerbin Road, spoke on behalf of the parents for NHS and echoed many of the comments made before on the need to keep looking at more creative ways to support the education mission for the students of Norwalk.

Kirstin Emhrogh, stated that she was a graduate of Norwalk High School and is now a college graduate having majored in Biology and wanted to share the importance of the school to Career program that helped both she and her brother. She spoke about the opportunity she had to job shadow with the Nursing program at Norwalk Hospital and how this valuable experience helped her have the added extra push to secure internships. She stated that eliminating the STC positions present an added burden on the "already spread too thin" roles of the guidance counselors.

Derrick Lue and Will Haskell spoke on behalf of the Co-op Ice Hockey Team, and shared their heartfelt feelings about their dreams of playing on the high school co-op team some day.

Paul Brown, Redcoat Road stated that he spent much of his professional career on the Board of Education in Stamford and spoke on behalf of taxpayers. He reminded the Board that an insufficient education budget hurts the city and property values. He stated that the Board should ask for a budget that meets all the needs that every student in Norwalk deserves and not short change the BOE budget. He added that we should not presume that these are the only cuts that are to be accepted, and the superintendent should submit a budget that gives the city what the students need.

Gregory Kryspan, 258 Silvermine Avenue, thanked Dr. Marks for replying to his email. He reviewed segments of the budget and suggested that 40% of the budget is spent on administration. He suggested that these costs be put back into the classroom and not in the ivory towers of central office administrators.

Edward Musante, President and CEO of the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce spoke on behalf of the School to Career Program. He presented a letter and research to the Board, with excerpts as follows: The program was created in 1994 through a partnership between the Norwalk Public Schools and the Chamber of Commerce and has significantly, consistently and effectively enhanced the lives of young people in the community. The benefits of the School to Career Program extend to all high school students in our district, so the loss of this program would be truly devastating. It would waste community connections that have taken years to establish; more importantly, it would deprive our students of knowledge, personal growth, and increased self awareness, motivation, and vision to a program that bring large and lasting dividends-and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of students.

Chavez Robersonv S 54 Connecticut A venue, stated that he wrote a poem for Briggs High School, and read his rap-song that highlighted the state of affairs of budgets, concessions, and resolutions.


N aney Wargo stated that she wanted to thank the Board for clarifying the swim team costs and feels it is important to keep in perspective that the pool costs are shared by the city. She encouraged the Board to hear the cries of the swim members and reinstate the co-op SWIm program.

Karen Ansler stated that she is a handicapped parent and that it was important for the Board to know the amount of fundraising is done to keep students in the band, along with an account of $985 each year for their account. She spoke about how much they do for their band including picking up garbage, parking cars, can & bottle drives, and it is hurtful that the city cannot support only a small amount for transportation.

Wendy Aylward, 13 Timberline Road, stated that she has a hard time understanding that ifby foregoing the salary increase saves jobs and programs, why the unions will not come to the table to negotiate. She added that under the new leadership of Dr. Marks,

the Norwalk Public School system has turned the comer on educational standards, but unfortunately, we are not there yet and we are caught up in unprecedented and very difficult financial times. She strongly agrees with a pay freeze policy for all city BOE employees until such time as we are out of the financial mess that we all find ourselves in and hopefully through education reform create a more effective compensation program for teachers even more. She asked why the unions will not come to the table to negotiate, and directed the comment to Mr. Mellion with this question, and he did not reply.

David Davidson complimented Dr. Marks on the openness and transparency of the process and stated that this would have never happened under the leadership of Dr. Corda. He asked how much was built in for salary increases, and Mrs. Vaccarella replied $101,199 million, and Mr. Davidson stated that on top of$98 million from last year looks like more than $2million. He added that strong consideration should be placed on bring out of district placements back in house and although the programs will take time to develop and will have an initial cost associated with them. Over time these programs will increase the district's capacity to educate students in the district. He added that the step increase practice should be revamped to reflect salary increase only that directly impact education benefits. He said he is in agreement with the salary freeze comments made earlier and encouraged the unions to pay attention to the criteria for shared sacrifice.

Anna Duleep, 3 Briarwood Road, Norwalk, stated that she was a mentor in both elementary and middle schools, was a board member on the Youth Services Advisory Council and former Council person on the Common Council. She stated that she had suggestions for the consolidation of services and for securing grants, and referred to opportunities whereby legal services could be negotiated with significant savings or possibly pro bono. She referred to items within the Superintendent's budget on page 68, under object code 331, where there is an appropriation for legal fees of$205,000. She staled that given the involvement of corporation counsel, the lower rates which were negotiated, and contracts to be negotiated, and hearing representations should have joint services and not need separate counsel (BOE and City) for effective protection of taxpayers' interests, that appropriation could, in my opinion, be safely reduced.


Emily Aguilar, 84 Benedict Street, Norwalk thanked Dr. Marks on behalf of the PTO Council for the fine job she has done during this budget process, said they truly appreciate his professional manner in which she has embraced her position. She stated that parents need to be ready to support the budget necessary to provide the level of education that Norwalk needs to meet state standards, by coming out to the Common Council and BET meetings. She stated that the PTO council forum was very helpful in addressing many questions and concerns and would like these issues to be clarified for the public. She said thee have been community forums that clearly state the need for involvement by stakeholders plays a vital role with educational direction and the mission statement has to evolve around the input provided by the community. She highly recommends translations of Spanish for all communications and public forums, and urged the Board to please listen to your community and keep their focus on the children's educational interests that are at stake.

Mr. Colarossi asked if the 3.32% increase might need to be reduced even more depending on the target range of the BET and is there a plan in the event this occurs?

Dr. Marks replied that if we do not receive the 3.32% increase from the city, we will need to look at other ways to make up the difference. This will mean additional reductions and working with our union partners and explore private/public partnerships. I will be getting input from stakeholders regarding additional reductions.

Mr. Colarossi stated the public was welcome to stay, but that at this time, asked if the Board members had any additional comments.

Mr. Iannaccone stated that he is very sensitive to the budget issues, especially as a former president of the Band Parents and added that there needs to be a collaborative effort for all parties to come to the table to share the sacrifice and work on the recommended budget.

Mr. Chiaramonte reminded everyone that this is the third budget crisis year, and it is getting worse with more and more cuts and less stimulus and state funds. He added that he is also a parent and we all want what is best for our children and we have to find ways to work together.

Mr. Colarossi thanked everyone for coming out and stated that the next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 11 at 7:45 p.m. to approve the budget.

ADJOURNMENT

**

MS. HAYNIE MOVED TO ADJOURN. MR. COLAROSSI SECONDED.

**

The meeting '>"IM adjourned at 1 0:05 p.rn.

Respectfully submitted, Marilyn Knox

Telesco Secretarial Services



V.B.3.

CITY OF NORWALK BOARD OF EDUCATION SPECIAL MEETING JANUARY 11, 2011

ATTENDANCE:

Jack Chiaramonte, Chairman; Jody Bishop-Pullan, Steve Colarossi, Glenn Iannaccone, Susan Hamilton, Sue Haynie, Heidi Keyes, Migdalia Rivas;

STAFF:

Dr. Susan Marks, Superintendent;

Donna Vaccarella, Interim Budget Coordinator,

Rita Galbo, Finance Department Administrative Support

Call to Order

Mr. Chiaramonte called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m. and led those present in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mr. Chiaramonte stated that the purpose of this special meeting was to provide the public another opportunity to voice comments and obtain information on the budget recommendation.

Public Comments

Mr. Chiaramonte asked for any individuals who signed up to speak to state their name, address or affiliation and to limit questions or comments to three minutes in length.


1. Michael Rybnick stated that he was here on behalf of Wolf pit and Norwalk High School, and that so many aspects of this budget go against every reason he and his wife chose to raise our kids in Norwalk and send them to these schools. He said that if you pass that budget, not only do you fail your mission statement, but you fail every student in the district in terms of education and safety. He spoke against the budget cuts and encouraged the Board not to pass the recommendation.

2. Maria Robinson, Co-President of the Wolfpit PTO stated that she is appalled at the devastating cuts in this recommended budget and to have to fight for the future ofthe City to keep these vital programs is a sad state of affairs. She said the Board should ask for what is truly needed and stated that she had spoken last week in particular on behalf of the maintaining the Assistant Principal, Intervention and Literacy Aides and Numeracy Coaches at Wolfpit Elementary School. She added that tonight's meeting should have been cancelled due to the snow storm, and many people would have been here to voice their comments, but were concerned about the weather.

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Board of Education

January 11,2011

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3. Mr. Drew Todd, spoke on behalf of the maintaining the Assistant Principal, Intervention and Literacy Aides and Numeracy Coaches at Wolfpit Elementary School. He stated that the school has many great things going on and urged the Board to value those strengths and not change the formula of their success and stated that he wanted to echo comments made at last Thursday's meeting that this budget short changes the future of the City. He added that every part of the puzzle works especially at Wolfpit School. He stated that there is money in the City and businesses are here and are thriving. He applauds the collaboration by the Board and the Finance Department and everyone involved with the non-recommended budget, but he strongly encourages examination of alternatives.

4. Ms. Debby Todd, stated that it is amazing the sense of community and how great the leadership is at Wolfpit School, but it is at stake ifthe education budget cannot accomplish the initiatives so desperately needed to address the achievement gap. I beg of you not to approve this budget as an inadequately funded school system could lead to declining home values. She added that as a salesperson by trade, you have to up your request and ask for more and hope to settle somewhere in between. She stated that she is disappointed at Dr. Marks who has said she joined the district this summer with a vision to increase rigor and prepare every child for college, had recommended a budget that would cripple classrooms. She added that this budget is a contradiction with what she has stated as her vision to create an environment of accountability for the many stakeholders with the Norwalk Public Schools, to establish leadership to raise standards of education, improve the opportunities for professional development for teachers along with open dialogue with administration and the Board of Education. She expected Dr. Marks to ask for more in this process that results in the operating budget for Norwalk Public Schools, and, the community should have the chance to raise questions and concerns with officials.

5. Karen Pace, Ridgewood Lane, Rowayton, introduced herself as an active parent in the Norwalk Public Schools, and current co-president of the BMHS Parents Club. She echoed the comments made by other public participants and stated that this budget should not be recommended for approval as the cuts are too damaging and are directly in opposition to the Norwalk Public Schools' mission statement. She read the mission statement and added that it can be best summarized by saying, that we love our schools and our charge is to provide the best possible education for our children. She quoted narrative statements made at PTO Council budget information workshops about commitment to closing the achievement gap and again strongly encouraged the Board not to pass this budget.

6. Kerry O'Neil, introduced herself called the cuts "detrimental to the education and future of our children" and urged parents to continue to rally the Board of Estimate and

. ~ ... Taxationand.tbe CplUI)1onCQunci L -- those that w.ilLultimateiydictate.the .amcunt. of. money that drives the school district's operations. As with the budget committee, she said, all stakeholders need to be part of this conversation and the collaboration must continue.


7. Nancy Wargo stated that she wanted to remind the Board that they employ a pay to play program it must be for all sports and not just the for the swim team costs. She encouraged the Board to hear the cries of the swim members and reinstate the co-op swim program, and to examine other alternatives of budget cutting.

8. Emily Aguilar, 84 Benedict Street, Norwalk thanked Dr. Marks on behalf of the PTO Council for the challenging job she has done during this budget process, and as a member ofthe budget committee reminded the Board that the recommendation is not final by any means. She stated that parents need to be ready to continue to support the budget necessary to provide the level of education that Norwalk needs to meet state standards, by coming out to the Common Council and BET meetings. She reminded the community that moving this budget forward, the picture will come into clearer focus, and this could change, for better or for worse. She added a statement to the community at large to please join us and let your city officials know we cannot afford such sacrifice from our children. She summarized that the work has only started, and she is ready to continue the fight for the long hall.

9. Gloria Tenofsky Falcone, spoke on behalf of the parents of Norwalk High School, and stated that the BOE is really doing the best it can with the restrictions and guidelines they have. She reminded the groups that parents need to be ready to continue to support the budget necessary to provide the level of education that Norwalk needs to meet state standards, by coming out to the Common Council and BET meetings. She added that a small amount of increase would go a long way to save jobs and program cuts that affect so many children.

10. Ms. Linda Sumptner, Principal of Po nus Ridge Middle School read statements by the Po nus PTSO and teachers, summarized as follows: The Ponus Ridge PTSO applauds the collaboration by the Board and the Finance Department and everyone involved with the non-recommended budget, but strongly encourages examination of alternatives, as there is no magic surplus ... the future of the community is at stake if the education budget cannot accomplish the initiatives so desperately needed to address the achievement gap . ... it is their mission to create an environment of accountability for the many stakeholders with the Norwalk Public Schools, to establish leadership to raise standards of education, improve the opportunities for professional development for teachers along with open dialogue with administration and the Board of Education. Ms. Sumptner summarized her statement to encourage Board not to pass this budget as it cuts too many programs and services.

11. Ms. Stayci Mallozzi, stated thatshe is a life longresidentof Norwalkand had attended Norwalk Public Schools. She encouraged the Boardnotto pass this budget as the future of our children is at stake. She added that the budget is 85% salaries, and if all employees took a pay cut and cheaper benefits, it would save millions of dollars, and she urges the Board to strongly consider not to pass this budget.


12. Ms. Shannon Tchkotoua, 2 Old Field Road, Rowayton, stated that she is copresident of the Rowayton School PTA and thanked all involved in this terribly laborious process. She stated that she was here to set the record straight with a statement that the Board is on our side as colleagues will lose their livelihood if positions are cut. She stated that she concurs with Lisa Thomson on recommending a freeze on pay increases, as all other bargaining groups in the City have already done. She urged the administration and Board members to avoid cuts of this nature and to focus on providing appropriate and sustaining educational programs for all children.

13. Dr. Lynne Moore, Principal of West Rocks Middle School, stated strongly that city representatives should provide Norwalk Public Schools with the resources it needs to operate next year without making "excessive" reductions. She stated that she is here, once again, to express the same sentiment as made at the past meetings. She stated that this year with a devastating 2% increase on top of a zero increase, with have a negative impact on the schools. She stated that she believes that hard work with reconciling the budget and the difficult cuts that they have been asked to make, again with no new initiatives is devastating to the district. She stated that the proposed pay freeze will not solve the $2 million problem, and is a false notion. She stated that it is our mission to create an environment of accountability and that community stakeholders playa vital role with educational direction and the mission statement has to evolve around the input provided by the community, and to let the Common Council members know that their support is vital. She stated that West Rocks has invited Common Council members to a community Tea and many of them have either not replied or turned down the invitation as it is not in their district of representation. She urged the public to remember that at this point it is all about politics and it is critical to voice our points to the BET and the Common Council Finance Committee.

14. Ms. Susan Wallerstein stated that she was here to pay it forward, and she gave her background as a former member ofthe Board of Education, BET and Common Council and now as a tax payer without children. She stated that in her forty plus years of experience she has thumbs up and downs and recommendations for improvement to the process. She said there is to be a "thumbs up" on the terrific approach of transparency of the process, but to revaluate what works from past years and to incorporate that learning into the public process. Also a "thumbs up" on the series of concessions made by city unions over the past two years, as there needs to be shared sacrifice. She stated a thumbs up to the PTO council and R. Ed. Apples organization for their detailed the impact of a recommended one-year hard wage freeze from the 900 members of the Norwalk Federation of teachers, and that concessions should begin with top-tier administrators. She encouraged the Board to figure out how to include this valuable input. She stated a "thumbs down" to the BET who changed the game plan the Monday before the BOE meeting on Tuesday, which was an unfair rug-pulling of a plan that is based on approved guidelines. She stated that she gives a big "thumbs down" for union administration officials who play "gotcha". She stated that now is not the time for a learning process on the resource allocation process, but is a budget recommendation in totality. She added that consideration should be done to

eliminate legal fees, as lawyers are not needed for education suspension hearings. Also, she stated that post retirement benefits are subsidized generously by the Norwalk plan, and it is time to re-evaluate this practice.

City of Norwalk:

Board of Education January 11,2011 Page 4 of8

15. Ms. Diana Manousos, stated that she was here on behalfofthe Hispanic community and found it very difficult to follow the process as it was not translated in Spanish. She said on behalf of the children investment in education was needed for all kids.

16. Chuck Goulart, President Norwalk High school Music Program, thanked the BOE for taking the time to get blood from rocks and asked to review the budget one more time. He stated that all of you have searched for the ways to cut items, people, and programs to form a budget, and I understand you have a tough job and with all of the cuts looming on the horizon, The City of Norwalk will still be pushing the districts schools to make the grade, with No child left behind, and to close the gap in state and fed testing. Cutting the tools that build the foundation in producing these students would be like you demanding me to build you a house and not supply me with enough wood, bent nails and no hammers. I promise you the house you desire and expect to see will not be built. Instead of telling the finance committee this is our recommended budget tell them that this what the budget has to be and it is an absolute non-negotiable budget. Remind the City officials that in order to run a school system with all of its own pressure from above to perform, and turnout excellence in education should always be our end goal. We all know everyone has to give a little in these difficult times. Please find other ways for the city to cut items and shift the saving into education budget, and even if you raised my taxes .5% it would be better than having to lose so many educational programs

17. Bruce LeVine Mellion, president of the Norwalk Federation of Teachers, said is not our responsibility, to subsidize the board or to pay for that which the taxpayers are not willing to pay. He added that the NFT contract went into effect five months ago and took months of arbitration wit the BET, and he quoted from Michael Lyons from the minutes of November 9 that referred to the contract as revenue neutral for three years. He detailed the impact of a one-year hard wage freeze from the 900 members of the Norwalk Federation of teachers, who are scheduled by contract to receive a 1.36-percent raise and an estimated 1.54-percent step increase. He added that the change to a Health Savings Account benefit program has saved $2 million and will continue to save each year over three years, but as a result teachers have incurred more in out-of-pocket costs and in meeting high deductibles. This is another sacrifice that the teachers have had to make. He stated that they understand the economic realities of the day, but there has never been an easy budget cycle in Norwalk, and the coalition with the NFT is not pleased with the recommendation with only a 3.3% increase. The issue at this point is really simple: tax payers -- the citizens of Norwalk -- have to decide what level the Board of Education should be funded at and we are not an A TM, we are not Bank of America. He added that as stated by many parents tonight, we have to go up against the Common Council, the Finance Committee and the Board of Estimate and Taxation prior to when the CAP is set.

18. Mr. John Mosby, Norwalk, thanked the BOE for allowing him to speak, and he wanted to echo what other parents had said, that the public has a right to know the details of the budget. but thebooks were n9t.ayailable.lfea.qd~dthatl1\:Dvas. tpldtogetabQok at City Hall, and he went there, but there were no budget books available. He added that this is a violation of the freedom of information and an example of how the Norwalk Public Schools is unfair and biased in their approach to parents.

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 11, 2011 Page 5 of8

Mr. Mosby added that as stated before, the Board is racist and the fact that there are no blacks on the board is an example of bias and discrimination, and at this time in particular there is a need to work together for all races.

19. Mr. Bruce Kimmel, 9 Toilsome Avenue, Norwalk gave his background as a former member of the Board of Education and Common Council and stated that in his experience back in the 90s through early 2000 there is a undesignated fund balance. He described the need for this fund to maintain the City's triple A bond rating and referred to it as a rainy day fund, which may now be the time to draw down that as a potential source of revenue. He went on to describe the issue of affordable housing and in particular young teachers that cannot afford to live in Norwalk and are forced to live elsewhere as the housing and tax base is our of reach. He reminded the Board that teachers are people too, with a livelihood at stake with potential job cuts, and to look long and hard at keeping our educators in Norwalk.

Mr. Chiaramonte asked ifthere was anyone else who wished to make a comment, and hearing none, closed the public comments portion of the meeting at 9:20 p.m.

Mr. Chiaramonte stated that the next item on the agenda was Board member comments relative to the budget.

Superintendent

Dr. Marks stated that before the budget comments she wanted to add that a student at Brien McMahon High School remains in intensive care following a hit and run car accident. Tiana Escource, a junior at BMHS is in intensive care and hospitalized recovering from head trauma. She added that the school is soliciting donations to aide her family with the medical bills, and the Class of 2012 is coordinating collections on her behalf.

Board Member Budget Comments

Ms. Bishop-Pullan stated that she cannot approve a budget recommendation that does not fully fund what the city needs to meet the educational needs of the district and will sacrifice the safety and education of the students. She urged the Superintendent to take more time to accommodate the staffing needs, administrative needs and to reallocate the recommended line items to reinstate programs such as the co-op swim and hockey teams. She suggested that an alternate amount of $156,731,727 which represents a 4.25% increase over last year be passed on to the Common Council.

Mr. Colarossi stated that in view of the many nights of impassioned pleas from parents, teachers and school administrators to reject the superintendent's recommendation, he was in.full.agreement with.Ms. Bishop Pullan's.comments, .. He .. added. that while.itis their joh to advocate for a fiscally responsible budget, he cannot approve one that has fewer resources than the 2010-11 school year even though this budget, at $155,338,729 is a 3.32% more than last year.


There are no new initiatives or positions in this operating budget request. This operating budget includes reductions at every level of the school system including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as the central office administrators, teachers and support personnel, as well as programs. He stated that in all good conscience he could not approve the recommended budget, and the modified amount now requested represents 4.25 percent more than the current operating budget and .93 percent more than the budget the superintendent had begrudgingly recommended with this 100 page document.

Ms. Haynie stated that this budget includes the employee negotiated agreements, increases in employee benefits, staff class size guidelines and mandated special education services, was not arrive in isolation. The amount of funding from the City will not change and with a 3.32% increase it represents $203,900 for programs and $4.8 million for salaries. She added that to go with an additional .9 million, which to put into perspective is not fiscally responsible and is really unsustainable.

Ms. Rivas stated that this recommendation has started the budget process amidst the many uncertainties surrounding the financial situation in Norwalk and the state of Connecticut, and realizes that all of the very difficult sacrifices that have been made. She added that this is a community that values education and understands that a strong school system is essential to our future; she added that she also wants to acknowledge the many foundations, non-profit organizations and private foundations that invest in our school system, and looks forward to advocating not just for this budget, but for our students.

Ms. Keyes thanked everyone for coming out and agrees with what the public has said, that the cuts negatively impact children, from the loss of first grade aides, to assistant principals, from the loss of co-op swim and hockey teams to the School to Career. She added that all these programs are vital to sustaining the district, and we need to continue to work hard to find solutions.

Ms. Rivas stated that she was interrupted prior to finishing her comments, and wanted to restate her feelings on this difficult budget situation. She provided an analogy of the current budget state compared to "The Titanic" and suggested that more life boats are needed to build our resources and ensure that they are utilized effectively in support of student achievement. One of the primary accomplishments of the committee has been to review the operating budget line by line. In the past, we have been able to preserve school based staff and programs. However, for 2011-2012, we will not be able to have an operating budget that will not impact schools. She added that this operating budget request actually represents a budget that has fewer resources than the 2010-11 school year even though this budget, at $155,338,729 is a 3.32% more than last year. This budget includes the employee negotiated agreements, increases in employee benefits, staff class size guidelines and mandated special education services. There are no new initiatives or positions in this operating budget request, an she says this is a violation of the purpose oftheBoard of Education. She said thefmger.,.pointingthaLhas.gon_e.on is. outrageous and the City should stick together. She added that she does not understand why the Board does not recognize the silent voices of the children. Ms. Rivas suggested that similar to the "Adopt a Highway" programs, community businesses need to adopt a school and give the City the education funding that it needs.

City of Norwalk Board of Education January 11, 2011 Page 7 of8

Mr. Chiaramonte reminded the Board that there was an amended motion on the floor and he asked Ms. Bishop-Pullan to restate the motion.

MS. BISHOP PULLAN MOTIONED TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION:

RESOLVED, THAT BASED ON THE RECOMMENDATION BY THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RECOMMENDED BUDGET REQUEST BE AMENDED FROM $155,338,729 TO $156,731,727 FROM THE CITY TO FUND NORWALK PUBLIC SCHOOLS OPERATING BUDGET FOR 2011-2012.

MR. COLAROSSI SECONDED THE MOTION.

THE MOTION PASSED WITH SIX VOTES IN FAVOR, TWO OPPOSED, (M. RIVAS AND S. HAYNIE), AND NO ABSTENTIONS.

**

**

**

Finance/Committee Reports

Mr. Colarossi stated that the Policy Review Committee meeting has been cancelled in view of the weather and will be rescheduled.

Board Member Announcements

Mr. Chiaramonte reminded everyone that this is the third budget crisis year, and it is getting worse with more and more cuts and less stimulus and state funds. He added that he is also a parent and he revisited the line by line budget cutting that was done and gave the example of eliminating the budget for paper and office supplies. He added that they have to find a medium, and to keep in mind that nothing is set in stone, there is a long process ahead until the CAP is set by the Common Council. He stated that we all want what is best for our children and we have to find ways to work together.

Dr. Marks replied that if we do not receive the 4.25% increase from the city, we will need to look at other ways to make up the difference. This will mean additional reductions and working with our union partners and explore private/public partnerships and from stakeholders regarding additional reductions. She thanked all the members of the Board for their collaborative effort and the tremendous process of engagement, realizing the impact of parents with their support. She added that she recognizes the impact on taxpayers who are not parents and is impressed that people are willing to invest in education with higher taxes. She appreciates the efforts by the Board and the staff and reminded everyone that the process does not end tonight but the work gets harder and she will work with all to get the support for all students of Norwalk.

ADJOURNMENT

**

MS, HAYNIE MOVED TO ADJOURN. MR. COLAROSSI SECONDED.

**

The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted; Marilyn Knox, Telesco Secretarial Services

City of Norwalk:

Board of Education January 11, 2011 Page 8 of8

BOARD OF EDUCATION NORWALK, CONNECTICUT

Board Meeting Date:

1118/11

Action Required By (date):

1118/11

Number on Agenda:

k8J Action Item

D Information Item

(check one)

Agenda Title:

Approval of Budget Transfers

Background

Cost (if applicable):

Funding Source:

Beginning Date of Program or Project (if applicable):

Ending Date of Program of Project (if applicable):

Options (if applicable):

Recommendation:

See attachments

Resolved, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, that the Board of Education approve the attached Budget Transfers

Attachment: k8J Yes

DNo

(check one)

Submitted by: Superintendent's Office Department: __

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